Fairfield, Conn.-based GE says the technologies will be powered by Predix, a "first-of-its-kind industrial strength platform that provides a standard and secure way to connect machines, industrial big data and people." GE is also expanding its ecosystem to include AT&T, Cisco, and Intel, which will boost wired and wireless machine connectivity.

GE Transportation's cloud-based ShipperConnect software suite is designed to allow rail shippers and terminal operators to automate operations, manage inventory, and control transportation costs. The system includes business intelligence reporting tools that help customers make better decisions and respond faster to dynamic market conditions, the company said.